Note: This article’s statistics come from third-party sources and do not represent the opinions of this website. Dogs are the most popular pets in close to 70 million homes throughout the US. Cats account for more than 45 million pet households in the country. Fish are the third most popular pet in the US, with close to 12 million households owning a tank. Birds are found in nearly 10 million households in the United States. Reptiles and amphibians have become increasingly popular over the years, with nearly 5 million households owning them in 2022. Labrador Retrievers are the most popular type of dog in the United States. The Ragdoll is the most popular cat type in the country. Dog owners spend nearly 50% more on pet care compared to cat owners. Roughly 90% of pet owners believe their pets comforted them during the pandemic. Wyoming has more pet owners than any other state. 1. Dogs are the most popular pets in close to 70 million homes throughout the US. Dogs continue to be the number one choice for pet parents across the country, and it doesn’t look like that’s going to change any time soon. 2. Cats account for more than 45 million pet households in the country. Cats may not be as popular as dogs, but that doesn’t mean they should be overlooked. Over 45.3 million households across the US have a cat as their favorite furry friend, and it’s no wonder why. These independent and curious creatures can keep themselves occupied with toys and even make sure you never miss a meal! Cats have been gaining popularity over the past few years, and it looks like they’re here to stay. In fact, more people are turning to cats due to their low-maintenance lifestyle and ability to fit seamlessly into any home. 3. Fish are the third most popular pet in the US, with close to 12 million households owning a tank. Fish may not be as cuddly as cats or dogs, but they certainly provide a unique atmosphere to any home. With approximately 11.8 million households owning a tank, it’s no surprise that these small aquatic creatures are the third most popular pet in the US. Whether you want to add some color and life to your living space or simply enjoy the calming effects of a fish tank, there’s no denying that they are a great addition to any home. You can choose to go with the classics—like goldfish and guppies—or opt for something more exotic. Either way, fish can be an entertaining pet option for anyone who loves watching them swim around. 4. Birds are found in nearly 10 million households in the United States. From parakeets to macaws, birds are now a popular pet choice for many households in the US. Whether it’s their colorful plumage or melodic song, these feathered friends have been drawing in admirers for centuries. Not to mention, owning a bird is relatively low maintenance compared to other pet types. So, if you’re looking for an affectionate companion without all the fuss, then a bird might be the perfect pet for you. 5. Reptiles and amphibians have become increasingly popular over the years, with nearly 5 million households owning them in 2022. Not only are they low-maintenance and require little in the way of grooming, but reptiles and amphibians also come in a variety of shapes and sizes. From tiny geckos to giant tortoises, there are plenty of options for any pet lover. Plus, many of these creatures have incredibly long lifespans, meaning you can enjoy their company for years to come. If you’re looking for an interesting and low-maintenance pet, then reptiles and amphibians might be the perfect choice. These sweet and loyal pups have been adored by families for generations due to their playful personalities and intelligence. Not to mention, Labs come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes—so it’s easy to find one that fits your lifestyle. If you’re looking for a new furry friend that’s sure to bring lots of love and laughter into your life, then Labradors are the perfect breed for you. 7. The Ragdoll is the most popular cat type in the country. This one might come as a surprise, but the Ragdoll is the most popular type of cat in the US. Ragdolls are known for their laid-back personalities and intelligence, making them the perfect lap cat. But don’t let their mellow attitude fool you—these cats are still full of energy! From chasing toys around the house to snuggling up on a cozy blanket, Ragdolls always find a way to keep themselves entertained. With over 4 million households owning a Ragdoll in 2022, it’s clear that these cats are becoming more popular every year, with 2023 being no exception. They are perfect for love and cuddles with you when you need them most. 8. Dog owners spend nearly 50% more on pet care compared to cat owners. Mainly because dogs require more maintenance, from frequent vet visits to doggy daycare and chew toys galore. It’s simply a matter of needs, as dogs generally require more attention and care than cats. Furthermore, the vet visits alone can add up quickly—dog owners are estimated to spend almost $500 alone on yearly vet visits and preventative care. 9. Roughly 90% of pet owners believe their pets comforted them during the pandemic. When COVID-19 hit, it’s safe to say that many of us needed a furry friend to lean on. It turns out that an overwhelming majority of pet owners (89%) believed their pets provided them with comfort during the pandemic. For those living alone, having a pet around can be especially beneficial to mental health. After all, studies have found that pets can help reduce stress, depression, and anxiety. 10. Wyoming has more pet owners than any other state. It appears that Wyoming is the most pet-friendly state in America. According to a survey conducted in 2022, nearly 73% of households in the Cowboy State own at least one pet. Interestingly enough, this statistic doesn’t just apply to cats and dogs—Wyoming also has more reptile and amphibian owners than any other state. If you’re looking for a pet-friendly place to call home, you should definitely consider Wyoming! With its high number of pet owners and stunning natural scenery, it’s no wonder why so many families have chosen to make this their home. When it comes to pet-keeping, cats and dogs reign supreme in the United States. But that doesn’t mean people don’t also enjoy caring for other creatures such as fish, birds, reptiles, rabbits, and other small mammals. Here in the US, numerous individuals choose to adopt their pets from shelters and rescue shelters as opposed to buying them from breeders or pet stores. Nevertheless, there are still those who favor purchasing a furry companion in this manner instead. More than just providing companionship and unconditional love, having a pet can have significant physical and mental health benefits. Research has demonstrated that owning a pet can lower your stress levels, promote cardiovascular health, and even combat depression. Although cats and dogs continue to be the favorite among Americans, they’re not the only pet friends garnering attention. From fish and reptiles to rabbits and birds, many people are opting for more unconventional pets these days. Candace SmithCandace is a lifelong pet lover who grew up in a busy home with dogs, cats, and birds. Her favorite thing to do has always been to take care of pets. She reads every pet care book she can get her hands on, and she is motivated by helping make this a better world for pets. Graduated from North Carolina State University in 2001 with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine.